Edna Kay Hargrove

Edna “Kay” Hargrove, age 81, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Gateway Church on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Kay was born on January 13, 1944, in Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Lorie and Nancy Boll. She graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1962 and went on to earn a degree in Education from Eastern New Mexico University in Portales. While in college, Kay married her high school sweetheart, Gary Brownlow, and gave birth to their daughter, Lori Kay Brownlow. Tragically widowed in 1967, Kay displayed remarkable strength by continuing her education while raising her infant daughter. In 1968, she moved to Roswell, where she began her teaching career at Goddard High School. She later taught at Roswell High School and Hagerman High School, but found her true teaching home at Gateway Christian School, where she joyfully taught History and Bible for over 22 years. She inspired generations with her deep love for God and country. In 1970, Kay found love again and married Tom Hargrove. Together, they welcomed another daughter, Lisa Hargrove, and added their beloved chosen daughter, Erika Villareale, to their family. They raised their girls on the farm, cultivating not only crops but a deep, enduring love for family, faith, and community. Her daughters later married and brought her the sons she always wanted—Joel and Mick—as well as 11 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, both biological and chosen, all of whom were her pride and joy. Kay was a founding member of Gateway Church International, where she joyfully served and sang on the praise team for many years. She led numerous Bible studies and mentored young women through M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Preschoolers) and the Pregnancy Resource Center. Her greatest passion was sharing the redeeming love of Jesus. Though known for her sweet, loving, and gracious spirit, Kay was also fiercely competitive, a trait that made her Friday afternoon card and domino games legendary. She continued hosting these games until just two weeks before her passing and loved any chance to play (and win!) games with her family. Kay leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, strength, and unwavering love. She touched countless lives through her teaching, ministry, and example. She is also survived by her faithful lap companion of 12 years, Maggie, who rarely left her side. The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to everyone who provided care, support, and love to Kay during the final months of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kay’s honor to continue her legacy of impacting young lives: • Gateway Christian School 1900 N. Sycamore, Roswell, NM 88201 • Pregnancy Resource Center 901 W. Brasher Rd., Roswell, NM 88203

Edna Kay Hargrove

January 13, 1944 - July 31, 2025